Wednesday, 22 February 2023

 Melissa HORNE (Williamstown – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Ports and Freight, Minister for Roads and Road Safety) (09:45): I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support that our local community has provided to those affected by the natural disaster in Türkiye and Syria. On 12 February the Australian Islamic Centre in Newport was a hive of activity with its drive-through fundraiser for the victims, so it was terrific to drive through, grab lunch for the family and support this initiative. Congratulations are really due, as they raised $22,000. Then on 15 February I had the honour of attending the Newport Football Club at Langshaw Reserve for a community barbecue to also raise funds, with over $16,000 being donated – and let me tell you, the family really enjoyed it.

The outpouring of support from our community has been overwhelming, and it has been heartening to see so many people come together in a time of crisis. The Australian Islamic Centre and the Newport Football Club fundraiser barbecues are more examples of communities across the Williamstown electorate and our great state of Victoria coming together to support a collective cause, one that is anchored in the values of social justice, fairness and equality. I am proud of the work that has occurred in our electorate, particularly the leadership of the Newport Football Club, who have brought our community together to help our friends and neighbours in Türkiye and Syria, and I congratulate them for their actions.